On May 27, 1933, Chicago’s second world’s fair welcomed visitors to what is now Northerly Island, just south of Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium. Officially named the A Century of Progress International Exposition, the fair marked the 100th anniversary of the state of Illinois conferring Chicago its first municipal charter. With its multicolored buildings and emphasis on modernity, the fair sought to inspire hope in the midst of the Great Depression.

The Chicago History Museum’s virtual reality experience Chicago 00 brings the “Rainbow City” to life. Take in the buildings and boulevards that stretched along the lakeshore. Walk through the fairgrounds and imagine the wonders its visitors saw, such as airplanes, blimps, high-speed trains, technical innovations—and its super-sensation, the Sky Ride. Welcome to the World’s Fair.

The Chicago 00 Project is an award-winning partnership between the Chicago History Museum and filmmaker Geoffrey Alan Rhodes that produces free interactive virtual and augmented reality experiences. Soar above Northerly Island, immerse yourself in historical film and images of the 1968 Democratic National Convention protests, and more in this new and compelling medium. See all experiences.